“Ordinands from Many Different Nations” by Bishop DiMarzio

On Saturday, June 28, through the Grace of God, I will ordain 13 men to the priesthood for service to the Diocese in Brooklyn and Queens. Some superstition surrounds the number 13. For some it is bad luck, yet for others, especially for Italians, it is a lucky number since the Feast of St. Anthony falls on the 13th of June.

For many, 13 truly is a baker’s dozen, 12 plus one, a full complement. We are blessed since I am told that our 13 ordinands are the most for any diocese in the U.S. Certainly, this is the most men I will ordain to the priesthood since I began my Episcopal ministry among you ten-and-half years ago. We have great reason to rejoice, for we have no difficulty in placing all of these men in assignments in Brooklyn and Queens, as we are in need of those who can serve the diverse population of the diocese.